Premier visits Governor, sacks Greens ministers

PREMIER Lara Giddings visited Governor Peter Underwood this morning, suggesting an election is about to be called.

It is believed Ms Giddings called in Greens ministers Nick McKim and Cassy O'Connor this morning and told them she would advise the Governor to withdraw their commissions as ministers.

Premier Lara Giddings.

That would take effect tomorrow.

Ms Giddings is expected to make an announcement this afternoon, likely to include the election date and possibly covering whether she will recall parliament for a brief time to boost legislative backing for a Tamar Valley pulp mill.

The timing has potential to derail the new Palmer United Party.

PUP Leader Clive Palmer is due to announce the party's state leader in Hobart today.

It may be Braddon candidate Kevin Morgan.

The PUP's party registration to run in the election is near the end of a 30-day period for objections which started on December 18.

At least one has been lodged, by disgruntled former PUP candidate Marti Zucco.

The Tasmanian Electoral Commission will have up to 21 days to decide upon the registration and the objection when the 20-day period ends.

Supreme Court proceedings could potentially follow.

But once parliament is dissolved, writs will issued within five to 10 days.

Once they are issued, party registration processes which are still under way stop.

That would force PUP candidates to run as independents or grouped independents.